So farewell then to that bridge across the Mersey

No more [maybe] will countless thirsty walkers walk your way.*

Crossing the water, 1960

I have known you for over 40 years

And across your wooden planks 

I have happily sped to that pub over the River.

You date from the 1880s, and replaced

Sam’s Wilton’s wooden bridge of 1816

And both of you made it easier to cross

Making redundant that rowing boat

That countless landlords used to ferry 

Those wanting to cross the Mersey

Who still had to pay a bridge toll to walk over the water till the 1940s

Mr Wilton's bridge, date unknown

But now I read you are deemed unsafe

And “ the Engineers recommendations include 

A permanent repair or bridge replacement

With a review and a decision in due course

A temporary bridge installation would cost in the region of circa £220,000. ”**

I wait to know your fate.

Location; Chorlton

Pictures; the bridge over the water, 1960, Courtesy of Manchester Archives+ Town Hall Photographers' Collection, https://www.flickr.com/photos/manchesterarchiveplus/albums/72157684413651581?fbclid=IwAR0t6qAJ0-XOmfUDDqk9DJlgkcNbMlxN38CZUlHeYY4Uc45EsSMmy9C1YCk and Sam Wilton’s bridge date unknown, from the Lloyd Collection

*In homage to E.J.Thribb, the poet-in-residence at Private Eye. The character was created in 1972 by Barry Fantoni, who wrote the poems until 2010, when he was succeeded by other staff members

**News from Chorlton Park Ward Labour Party, If you would like to get in touch with us directly please feel free to email,cllr.joanna.midgley@manchester.gov.uk, cllr.dave.rawson@manchester.gov.uk cllr.mandie.shiltongodwin@manchester.gov.uk